Hi,

I live/work in Ann Arbor, MI with my J-1 visa and just entered US in May 2010. My wife lives/studies in Boston, MA with her F-1 visa since Aug 2009. When we file tax report for year 2010, do we need to report under "married filing separately" or "single"? It seems like that reporting under "single" makes easier our processes. Can each of us be a head of household?
Thanks,
M.I.

If you are married, you cannot file as single anymore.
You are both non-resident aliens and would need to file as married filing separately. You cannot file as head of household.

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Originally Posted by immae

Hi,

I live/work in Ann Arbor, MI with my J-1 visa and just entered US in May 2010. My wife lives/studies in Boston, MA with her F-1 visa since Aug 2009. When we file tax report for year 2010, do we need to report under "married filing separately" or "single"? It seems like that reporting under "single" makes easier our processes. Can each of us be a head of household?
Thanks,
M.I.

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Every one on J1 is exempt from residency for two years. You must file nonresident tax return Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ with form 8843.
Every one on F1 is exempt from residency for five years. You must file nonresident tax return Form 1040NR or 1040NR-EZ with form 8843.
Your U.S. Tax Return: U.S. Tax Filing Requirements for Non-Residents